Virginia Rail (Rallus limicola)

Nov. 7, 2012

Virginia rail / News-Leader file photo

Written by

Missouri Department of Conservation

Claim to fame: These lean, narrow-beaked marsh birds are most common in autumn and spring when migrating through the area. They are considered a game bird in Missouri and have a season in that runs from Sept. 1 to Nov. 9. (Check the Wildlife Code of Missouri for details.)

Family matters: Virginia Rails belong to the bird family Rallidae. Approximately 130 species make up this family, but only nine live in North America.

Length: Approximately 9 inches

Diet: Virginia Rails use their long curved bills to pluck a variety of invertebrates and insects from the mud and shallow water of the marshes they frequent.

Distinguishing characteristics: The Virginia Rail is a small, reddish-brown bird with gray cheeks. The reddish bill is long and has a slightly downward curve. The rail has a short, upturned tail with a banded black and white flank below. Virginia Rails have strong legs and can walk or run on floating marsh vegetation or on denser plant growth.

Habitat: Virginia Rails prefer marshes and wetland areas.

Life cycle: Nests are generally built in May. Clutch size varies, but the average number of eggs laid is eight to nine.